Syphilis Outbreak Spreads to Daviess County

Additionally, this outbreak has been linked to exposures to other infectious diseases, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and viral hepatitis (hepatitis A and C). Increases in adult syphilis cases had been reported across 11 counties in the southwestern portion of the state, with over 100 cases connected to this outbreak and three quarters of them originating from the Evansville area. 

To prevent further spread, the combined health department response will provide access to free testing and treatment to individuals in the community, especially those who are most at risk for infection. The most common risk factors associated with this outbreak include the use of methamphetamine, injection drug use, using social media or the internet to meet sexual partners, recent incarceration (in the past year), and exchanging money or drugs for sex. 

“Ensuring easy access to testing and treatment is a key component to stopping the community spread of serious infections like syphilis,” said Dr. Merle Holsopple, Daviess County Health Officer. “We are committed to working with the Indiana Department of Health to take services directly to the parts of community that need them most.” 

The DCHD, in collaboration with other local agencies, will offer free syphilis testing and treatment for the public from February 28 – March 4, 2021, during designated hours at the following location: 

• Daviess County Health Department 300 East Hefron Street, Suite 150 Washington, IN 47501 (812) 254-8666, option 1 Monday, 2/28 – Friday, 3/4: 8:00am – 5:00pm (+Wednesday, 3/2 until 7pm), Walk-ins accepted Testing for HIV will also be available during this time. 

Any additional updates testing locations or hours of operation will be posted on the DCHD’s Facebook page.